Unisys will manage IT services for the 2008 Republican National Convention.

The company announced that it is the RNC's official IT managed services provider. It will oversee project management and computer operations, while monitoring and maintaining services and equipment. It will coordinate with the convention's IT staff and other service providers to keep systems at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, Minn., running smoothly from Sept. 1 through Sept. 4.

The convention's IT systems will carry the load for about 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, volunteers, news reporters, and other guests during the Minneapolis-Saint Paul event.

"Nearly every aspect of the convention relies upon state-of-the-art computer technology," RNC president and CEO Maria Cino said in an announcement. "From monitoring the convention servers to manning the IT help desk, Unisys will be an important partner in the convention's success."

Unisys specializes in systems integration, outsourcing, and infrastructure services, as well as enterprise server technology. The global company focuses on creating efficient and secure business systems.

Greg Baroni, president of Unisys Federal Systems, said that his company looks forward to providing IT managed services for the historical event and delivering "critical services that will help make this year's convention the party's most technologically advanced event yet."

Forecasters believe the convention could give the Twin Cities an economic boost to the tune of $150 million to $160 million.

The Republican convention's Web site allows visitors to watch the progress as workers prepare the Xcel Energy Center for the event.